- The Network of Thermal Towns has presented in Madrid the potential of thermal tourism to generate economic activity, promote more sustainable tourism and strengthen the identity of local authorities.
- The event featured speeches by Luis Menor Pérez, president of the Network; Luis Martínez Sicluna, Secretary-General of the FEMP; and the mayors of Archena (Murcia), Caldes de Malavella (Girona), Mondariz-Balneario (Pontevedra) and Vega de Tirados (Salamanca).
- Promoted by the Spanish Federation of Municipalities and Provinces (FEMP), this network brings together more than 70 destinations across the country where thermal tourism is combined with gastronomy, heritage, nature and sustainability.
The Network of Thermal Towns held an informative breakfast meeting at the headquarters of the Spanish Federation of Municipalities and Provinces (FEMP) entitled ‘Thermal Towns: water that cares for, connects and gives a future to the region’, an event which highlighted the role of thermal tourism as a tool for promoting well-being, fostering local economic development and moving towards more sustainable and balanced models of tourism.
The event featured speeches by Luis Martínez-Sicluna Sepúlveda, Secretary-General of the FEMP, and Luis Menor Pérez, President of the Network of Thermal Towns and President of the Provincial Council of Ourense, who emphasised the role of thermal tourism as a means of promoting more sustainable tourism, generating economic activity and strengthening territorial cohesion.
The round-table discussion at the event, moderated by María García, Head of the Economic Promotion and European Funds Department, served to shed light on the reality of spa towns from a practical and local management perspective. Participants included Sergi Mir, mayor of Caldes de Malavella (Girona); Javier Calvo, mayor of Vega de Tirados (Salamanca); Patricia Fernández, mayor of Archena (Murcia); and César Gil, mayor of Mondariz-Balneario (Pontevedra), who shared their experiences regarding the impact of thermal tourism on their municipalities and its contribution to economic revitalisation, the creation of opportunities and the attraction of visitors throughout the year.
Promoted by the Spanish Federation of Municipalities and Provinces (FEMP), the Network of Spa Towns currently brings together more than 70 destinations across Spain where mineral-medicinal and thermal waters form part of the region’s historical, cultural and economic identity.
Much more than just spas: nature, heritage and gastronomy
Although thermal water remains at the heart of the experience, the current offering goes far beyond traditional wellness treatments. The network brings together destinations where thermal tourism coexists with historical heritage, local cuisine, nature, outdoor activities and more leisurely, mindful ways of travelling. From small rural villages surrounded by mountains and forests to historic towns with a tradition of thermal bathing, each location has developed its own identity linked to its local environment, culture and community.
Consequently, in many cases, visitors not only find spas and thermal pools, but can also go hiking, explore markets selling locally sourced produce, take part in traditional festivals, admire our country’s rich historical heritage and sample exquisite cuisine.
Thermal tourism as a lifestyle trend
The growth of wellness-related tourism reflects a shift in travellers’ priorities. The search for tranquillity, a break from everyday life and authentic experiences has gained prominence in recent years, in contrast to more intensive and mass-market forms of tourism.
In this new context, the Network of Thermal Villas particularly appeals to those who prioritise getaways centred on health, nature and personal well-being. Thermal water is no longer seen solely as a treatment but has also become an emotional and sensory experience linked to relaxation and self-care.
A model with a positive impact
This tourism model is closely linked to environmental conservation and the responsible use of water as a unique natural resource. The protection of springs, the preservation of the landscape and support for the local economy are all part of a more balanced vision of tourism that respects the local area.
According to the president of the Network of Thermal Villages, Luis Menor, “the relationship between thermal tourism and sustainability is one of the fundamental pillars of our project. Many of the villages are located in rural or inland areas where tourism helps to generate economic activity throughout the year, helping to reduce seasonality and boost local trade and services”.
A network championing a different approach to travel
At a time when the tourism sector is seeking more sustainable models and less standardised experiences, the Network of Thermal Villages represents a different way of travelling: slower, more mindful and connected to the local area.
Beyond simply relaxing, it proposes rediscovering the art of travel through a balance between wellbeing, the local area and authenticity. This is a trend gaining momentum amongst those seeking experiences with their own distinct character and a more unhurried relationship with time and the environment.
About the NETWORK OF THERMAL VILLAS
The Thermal Villages Network is an initiative of the Spanish Federation of Municipalities and Provinces, a not-for-profit organisation representing Spanish local authorities. It was established in 2001 with the aim of promoting a tourism model based on health, wellbeing, sustainability, digitalisation and innovation, whilst also highlighting the role of this type of tourism in the revitalisation of villages and small towns. The network now comprises more than seventy local authorities, united by a common feature: the presence of mineral and thermal waters, which form part of their identity, heritage and development model.
Source: REAL Marketing y Comunicación